Obsolete Fashion: Don’t Ridicule This Reticule

In a recent Fashion Dictionary post, commenter Nanne introduced me to the strange and wonderful fashion artifact known as the reticule purse. Before reading Nanne’s feedback, I was unfamiliar with the historical accessory. However, after a bit of research, I found out the unique story behind one of the most essential items of fashion history.

The reticule bag was a tiny, decorative drawstring handbag carried by women during the Regency era. This precursor to the modern clutch came in variety of shapes, colors, and fabrics–women usually matched their bag to the dress of the day. Reticules hung from a long strap, typically attached to the wrist or the waist, and were used to carry personal necessities, such as cosmetic mirrors or smelling salts.

Personally, I would love to get my hands on an authentic reticule from the 1800s! Are there any antiquated accessories you’d like to add to your collection?

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9 Responses to Obsolete Fashion: Don’t Ridicule This Reticule

Reticules always make me think of Sweeney Todd and the lyrics from “Kiss Me”:
“I’ll take my reticule.
I need my reticule.
You mustn’t think
Me a fool
But my reticule
Never leaves my side,
It’s the only thing
My mother gave me”

I love old hair combs that were used to adorn the hair, not brush it. Some of the Edwardian (early 1900s) era combs are simply gorgeous, but I’ve seen one or two Art Nouveau ones shaped and coloured like an iridescent dragonfly, which I would especially love to own.

If you ever check out the book “The Thoughtful Dresser: The Art of Adornment, the Pleasures of Shopping, and Why Clothes Matter” they have a whole chapter about how in women’s history the reticule was the precursor to the purse, and how the purse only came about as women were allowed out without an escort to go “a-shopping!” Crazy how the items we use today and consider just part of fashion have a long history and implications for women’s liberation back in the day.

I’d love to have reason for a beautiful hat pin… i wish society would bring back old world fashion ettiquette that gave reason for gloves and hats outside the house. People barely make it beyond tracksuit pants outside the house these days!

I have one of these! My aunt loves creating costumes for historical reenactments, and she made me a gorgeous one with embroidered flowers and a silk ribbon drawstring. I use it for costume parties and for my annual trip to the Renaissance Faire. It’s way more convenient than a handbag.